Understanding Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease

In this episode of The Truth Lies & Alzheimer’s, we break down what dementia really is, how it affects the brain, and why understanding the differences between various types of dementia is so important for families, caregivers, and professionals.

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of progressive neurological conditions that impact memory, thinking, behavior, and daily functioning. While some cognitive changes are part of normal aging, dementia involves much greater loss of brain cells and connections—and symptoms worsen over time.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

1. The difference between normal aging and dementia
2. Four of the most common types of dementia:
3. Alzheimer’s disease
4. Frontotemporal dementia
5. Lewy body dementia
6. Vascular dementia
7. What is happening inside the brain with each condition
8. Common symptoms and how they progress
9. Typical ages of diagnosis
10. Why dementia can be difficult to diagnose
11. Current treatment approaches and limitations

We also take a deeper dive into Alzheimer’s disease, including:

1. How Alzheimer’s develops in the brain
2. The role of amyloid plaques and tau tangles
3. Early signs and stages of the disease
4. Genetic, lifestyle, and environmental risk factors

The episode closes with practical insight into brain health, overstimulation, and regulation—exploring how constant digital input can contribute to burnout, and why slowing down, disconnecting, and engaging in real-world connection supports clearer thinking and emotional balance.

This information was reviewed and updated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), with the most recent updates noted through June 5, 2025.

Resources

1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
2. National Institute on Aging (NIA)
3. Alzheimer’s & Dementia Research
4. Elder Law Answers – Dementia Risk Factors & Screenings

About the Host:

Author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with expertise in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. In her 30+year career working with family members and caregivers, Lisa has taught them how to successfully navigate the many challenges that accompany this heartbreaking disease. Lisa is both a Certified Dementia Practitioner and is also a certified dementia care trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association. She also holds a degree in Human Behavior.

Her latest book, “Truth, Lies &...